Highland Park, Illinois, nestled along the picturesque North Shore of Lake Michigan, is renowned for its stunning architecture, lush green spaces, and vibrant community. But beyond the beautiful homes and scenic parks, Highland Park boasts a surprisingly diverse and delicious culinary scene. Craving a fantastic meal near Highland Park? You’re in luck! This guide is your passport to discovering the best food options in and around this charming suburb, from cozy cafes to upscale dining experiences. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor exploring the area, prepare your taste buds for a culinary adventure. We’ll be showcasing everything from classic Italian fare and comforting American dishes to exciting international flavors and quick, satisfying bites. So, ditch the cooking tonight and let’s dive into the mouthwatering world of food near Highland Park, IL!
Delicious Dining Destinations in and around Highland Park
When it comes to finding the perfect restaurant for a special occasion, a casual weeknight dinner, or simply a delicious lunch, Highland Park and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of choices. From family-friendly establishments to romantic date night spots, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Let’s start with Carlos & Carlos Restaurant, a local favorite for over two decades. This warm and inviting spot serves up authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their fajitas are legendary, sizzling with perfectly seasoned vegetables and your choice of steak, chicken, or shrimp. The margaritas are also a must-try, crafted with fresh lime juice and top-shelf tequila. Carlos & Carlos is the perfect place for a fun and festive meal with friends and family. As one reviewer raved, “The atmosphere is always lively, the service is fantastic, and the food is consistently delicious. It’s our go-to spot for Mexican!” It has a great ambiance with dim lighting and cozy booths, which makes for a good experience with any sized group.
Next up, we have The Stinking Rose, a truly unique dining experience for garlic lovers. Located just a short drive from Highland Park, this restaurant celebrates the stinking rose in all its glory. From garlic-infused appetizers to entrees brimming with the flavorful bulb, The Stinking Rose is a culinary adventure. Don’t miss their signature Bagna Calda, a warm garlic and anchovy dipping sauce served with crusty bread. For the main course, the Forty Clove Garlic Chicken is a standout, its tender meat infused with the rich, aromatic flavor of roasted garlic. While it might not be the best choice for a first date, The Stinking Rose is a fun and memorable dining experience for those who appreciate the pungent power of garlic. “I love that there is a place so dedicated to garlic. The food is amazing and it is fun trying all of the different garlic inspired dishes” said one online reviewer.
For a taste of Italy, look no further than Trattoria Bella Mia. This charming trattoria offers a wide selection of classic Italian dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their homemade pasta is a highlight, especially the ravioli filled with ricotta and spinach, tossed in a delicate sage butter sauce. The wood-fired pizzas are also a popular choice, with a crispy crust and a variety of delicious toppings. Trattoria Bella Mia is the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a family celebration. Its warm and inviting atmosphere, coupled with its authentic Italian cuisine, makes it a true gem. If the weather allows, their outdoor patio is a great place to sit, enjoy a nice beverage, and socialize with friends and family.
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, Everest Restaurant is worth the drive. Perched atop a high-rise building with breathtaking views of the city, Everest offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on modern French cuisine. The tasting menus are a culinary journey, showcasing the chef’s creativity and skill. Each dish is a work of art, beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Everest is the perfect place for a special occasion or a truly unforgettable dining experience.
For the burger enthusiasts, you must try Sonnets Burgers & More, a local favorite that takes the classic burger to a whole new level. They’re known for juicy patties, creative toppings, and delicious homemade sauces. The atmosphere is family friendly and the service is generally quick. Some local favorites are the cheese fries, buffalo chicken sandwich, and chicken tenders. This is a restaurant that almost everyone enjoys, so it is great to bring a crowd to.
Quick Bites and Casual Eats near Highland Park
Sometimes, you just need a quick and easy meal without sacrificing flavor or quality. Fortunately, Highland Park offers a variety of casual eateries perfect for a lunchtime grab or a late-night snack.
Danny’s Deli is a Highland Park institution, serving up piled-high sandwiches and classic deli fare for decades. Their corned beef and pastrami are legendary, sliced thin and stacked on rye bread with mustard. They also offer a variety of soups, salads, and sides, making it the perfect place for a quick and satisfying lunch. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, and the staff always greets you with a smile. Danny’s is a true testament to the enduring appeal of a classic deli.
When a pizza craving hits, Barnaby’s Family Inn is the place to go. This family-friendly pizzeria offers a wide selection of pizzas, from classic cheese to gourmet creations. Their thin-crust pizza is a local favorite, with a crispy crust and a generous layer of toppings. They also offer a variety of appetizers, salads, and pastas, making it a great option for a casual meal with the family. They also offer games and activities that help keep the kids occupied.
For a caffeine fix and a light bite, Clucker’s Charcoal Chicken is a great choice. Besides coffee, they offer a wide variety of sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Its cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect place to relax and catch up on work or meet with friends. Many visit to take advantage of the drive-through option.
Cuisine-Specific Delights in the Area
Sometimes, you’re in the mood for a specific type of cuisine. Fortunately, Highland Park and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of restaurants specializing in different culinary traditions.
For authentic Italian cuisine, Francesca’s North is a must-try. This popular restaurant offers a menu of classic Italian dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their pasta is homemade, and their sauces are rich and flavorful. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it the perfect place for a romantic dinner or a family celebration.
For Asian flavors, Jade Dragon Chinese Restaurant is a local favorite. This restaurant offers a wide selection of classic Chinese dishes, from Kung Pao chicken to Mongolian beef. Their portions are generous, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a casual meal with friends and family.
For a taste of classic American fare, Walker Bros. Original Pancake House is the place to go. This iconic restaurant is known for its fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and delicious omelets. Their portions are generous, and their prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
Beyond the well-known restaurants, Highland Park and its surrounding areas are home to a few hidden gems that are beloved by locals.
That Little Mexican Cafe may not look like much from the outside, but this tiny restaurant serves up some of the most authentic and delicious Mexican food in the area. Their tacos are a must-try, filled with tender meat, fresh cilantro, and onions. They also offer a variety of other Mexican dishes, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. This place is more of a “hole in the wall” and is definitely a hidden gem.
Michael’s Hot Dogs is a no-frills establishment serving classic Chicago-style hot dogs. They are a local favorite for many years because they offer a nostalgic, classic take on a Chicago staple. A Chicago style hot dog is an experience that many non-locals don’t know about.
Beyond Restaurants: Stocking the Pantry
While dining out is a treat, sometimes you need to stock up on groceries and specialty ingredients. Fortunately, Highland Park offers a variety of excellent grocery stores and specialty food shops.
Sunset Foods is a local grocery store known for its high-quality produce, meats, and seafood. They also offer a wide selection of specialty items, making it a great place to find unique ingredients for your home cooking.
Grand Food Center is a great place to get specialty products such as olive oils, pastas, cheeses, wine, meats, and premade foods to make it easier to prepare great meals at home. They are knowledgable about their products and offer great customer service.
Conclusion: A Culinary Paradise Awaits
As you can see, the culinary scene near Highland Park, IL, is diverse, vibrant, and incredibly delicious. From upscale dining experiences to casual quick bites, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, Highland Park’s restaurants and eateries are sure to delight your taste buds. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your appetite and start exploring the incredible food options near Highland Park today! You’re sure to discover a new favorite restaurant or a hidden gem that you’ll want to visit again and again.
